Odani Castle Ruins

Castle of the Azai Clan

Odani Castle is a mountain castle built on 495-meter Odaniyama mountain, prospering as the residence of the Azai clan for three generations. Attacked by Oda Nobunaga in 1573, it fell and Azai Nagamasa committed ritual suicide. The Three Azai Sisters were taken from this castle to Nagahama Castle.

The Three Azai Sisters

Nagamasa's three daughters — Chacha (later Yodogimi, concubine of Toyotomi Hideyoshi), Hatsu (later wife of Kyogoku Takatsugu), and Go (later wife of Tokugawa Hidetada) — survived the turbulent Warring States period, known for their fated lives each marrying powerful men.

Mountain Castle Trekking

Trekking trails from the mountain base to the main enclosure are maintained, a thrilling trekking spot for mountain castle enthusiasts. Stone walls and trenches remaining throughout allow imagination of the mountain castle's structure.

Odani Castle Warring States History Museum

The mountain base museum allows detailed learning about Odani Castle and Azai clan history. Rich exhibits on the Three Azai Sisters make it a popular spot for NHK taiga drama fans.